Researchers at Temple University announce the invention of Zzoma, a treatment device for positional sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a serious condition that causes loud snoring and breathing to stop briefly numerous times during sleep. Sleep apnea is dangerous because it causes reduced blood oxygen levels that contribute to daytime drowsiness and can cause high blood pressure, stroke, heart attack, and death. There are several causes and types of sleep apnea. Positional sleep apnea occurs when a person sleeps on his or her back and their airway is compromised. The Zzoma is a device that is worn on the back during sleep prompting people to avoid sleeping in the more risky position on their back .
The Zzoma is worn belted around the chest. A piece of foam on the back of Zzoma inhibits a person from sleeping on his or her back. When the person rolls onto their side, normal breathing is resumed. In the studies, the researchers found that the Zzoma is easier to use than masks that supply continuous air (continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines). Talk to your doctor if you suspect that you have sleep apnea. The condition is easily diagnosed and is treatable.